Hepatitis C: Treatment

The module discusses hepatitis C classification, structure, epidemiology, models of care, and provides a synopsis of available treatments and their modes of action.

The Australian state governments are supporting nurse-led models of care and the implementation of nurse-led HCV (hepatitis C virus) outreach clinics.

The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee has recently allowed nurse practitioners experienced in clinical assessment and management of chronic hepatitis C virus infection, to independently prescribe the new direct acting antiviral treatments through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) General Schedule (Section 85).

This module is aimed at nurse practitioners working in the area of hepatitis C virus, and all nurses and midwives working with people at risk of hepatitis C infection or who have been diagnosed with hepatitis C.

At the end of this module participants will be able to:

• Identify the 7 medicines listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods for treating hepatitis C
• Understand the basic structure of hepatitis C RNA and the effects direct acting antivirals have on the hepatitis C virus protein synthesis pathway
• Identify the 7 key questions to consider during pre-treatment assessment
• Understand hepatitis C treatment management, including monitoring and post treatment follow-up
• Identify recommended treatment regimes
• Understand potential side effects and contraindications